In the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, surrounded by turquoise waters, yachts and private islands owned by the rich and famous, Canadians are playing ball hockey on an airstrip.

It is no ordinary gathering. Interspersed between the opposing teams are players from the National Hockey League (NHL), former Olympians and guests of Grand Isle Resort & Spa.

Earlier in the day, the teams left the resort and arrived by boat on Farmer’s Cay, a pristine 60-acre island with a population of just 27. The island’s 10 school children came out to watch.

With sweat pouring down their faces, the opposing sides take breaks when a ball flies into the nearby ocean, or when a private aircraft touches down on the airstrip. Laughing, the players scream – “PLANE!” – and move the nets to the side.

-1This road hockey game on Feb 11, 2014, was just one of many sports-related events held during the resort’s Sochi Under the Sun celebration to commemorate the Olympic Games in Sochi, Russia.

Beginning on February 9th, Grand Isle was buzzing with activity.

In addition to the hockey, guests at Grand Isle and Sandals Emerald Bay were treated to a “mini-Olympics” on the beach. A morning jog, an energetic volleyball match and fun-filled swimming events were put on by the elite athletes.

_Volleyball2While everyone was having fun in the sun, the main thrust of Sochi Under the Sun has been to raise money for athletes.

Corporate sponsors were invited to give donations, receive a discount on their villa, have a personal experience with an Olympian and attend a “Dinner of Champions” under the stars. Grand Isle plans to have more of these events in the future, casting a spotlight on the need to find our athletes on an annual basis.

You won’t find a more gorgeous place to play sports and enjoy the outdoors than Exuma – and Grand Isle Resort & Spa!

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